The nomination, announced Thursday by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, marks a significant shake-up in President Ruto’s Cabinet.
Kagwe replaces Andrew Karanja, who has been nominated to serve as Kenya’s Ambassador to Brazil.
Kagwe, a seasoned politician and administrator, rose to national prominence as Health CS during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure, where he played a critical role in leading Kenya’s COVID-19 response.
His management of the pandemic earned him both local and international recognition, solidifying his reputation as a crisis manager in government.
Beyond his recent role, Kagwe boasts a political career spanning decades.
He previously served as Nyeri Senator and was instrumental in liberalising Kenya’s communication sector during President Mwai Kibaki’s administration, a reform that paved the way for the country’s digital transformation.
He was also the Member of Parliament of Mukurwe-ini from 2003 to 2007.